1st Week of Advent
01st December 2024 (Sunday)
Psalter: Week 1
Reading of the Day
| First Reading | Jeremiah 33:14-16 |
| Response | To you, O Lord, I lift my soul. |
| Second Reading | 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2 |
| Gospel | Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 |
First Reading
Jeremiah 33:14-16
The days are coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfil the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah. In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land. In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure; this is what they shall call her: “The LORD our justice.”
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14
R/. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul
Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my saviour,
and for you I wait all the day. R/.
Good and upright is the LORD;
thus he shows sinners the way.
He guides the humble to justice,
and teaches the humble his way. R/.
All the paths of the LORD are kindness and constancy
toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
The friendship of the LORD is with those who fear him,
and his covenant, for their instruction. R/.
Second Reading
1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
Brothers and sisters: May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen. Finally, brothers and sisters, we earnestly ask and exhort you in the Lord Jesus that, as you received from us how you should conduct yourselves to please God and as you are conducting yourselves you do so even more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
Gospel Acclamation
Psalm 85:8
V/. Alleluia
R/. Alleluia
V/. Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation.
R/.Alleluia.
Gospel
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
Jesus said to his disciples: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Homily for the First Sunday of Advent
A young boy sat by the window one evening, his eyes glued to the window. His mother was curious about his excitement, so she asked, “What are you waiting for?” The boy replied, “Dad promised that he’d bring me a surprise today.” Hours passed, and though the night grew dark, his anticipation stayed unhindered.
This simple story beautifully reflects the heart of Advent—a season of hope-filled anticipation and trust in God’s promises. It invites us to watch, wait, and prepare for the fulfillment of His Word.
Advent has from today’s readings has four importances
- A Promise of Hope Fulfilled
- Preparing Our Hearts for His Coming
- Staying Awake in Hope
- A Call to Readiness
A Promise of Hope Fulfilled
The First Reading from Jeremiah comes at a time of despair for Israel. Yet, God’s promise shines like a beacon:
“The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.”
This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the “Righteous Branch.” Advent reminds us that just as God was faithful then, He remains faithful now. Even in moments of uncertainty, we can trust that His promises are steadfast.
Preparing Our Hearts for His Coming
St. Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians speaks of preparation, not merely through rituals but by transforming our hearts:
“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else… May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy.”
Advent preparation calls us to a deeper love and holiness. It’s a time to reflect on how we live out our faith. Are we growing in love? Are we striving for holiness? These are the ways we ready ourselves to welcome Christ anew.
Practical Ways to Prepare
- Spend time in daily prayer and scripture reflection.
- Practice acts of kindness and generosity.
- Go to confession and seek spiritual renewal.
Staying Awake in Hope
The Gospel paints a dramatic picture of chaos:
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars… People will faint from terror.”
Yet Jesus urges us:
“When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
In a world filled with challenges and fears, Advent calls us to keep our eyes fixed on Christ. Like a candle burning in the darkness, our hope in Him must remain steadfast.
A Call to Readiness
Jesus warns against becoming distracted by life’s worries:
“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life.”
Advent challenges us to wake from spiritual slumber. It’s a time to cast aside distractions and refocus on what truly matters—our relationship with God.
Questions for Self-Reflection
- Am I spiritually ready to welcome Christ?
- What habits or distractions do I need to set aside?
- How can I deepen my faith during this season?
Living the Advent Spirit
Advent invites us to live with joyful expectation, much like the boy by the window. Trusting in God’s promises, we prepare our hearts for the ultimate surprise—the coming of Christ.
Practical Steps to Live Advent
- Light the Advent wreath as a family and reflect on its meaning.
- Volunteer or give to those in need.
- Meditate on the readings of the season to deepen your understanding of hope and redemption.
Advent is a season of waiting, watching, and hoping. Just as the boy trusted his father’s promise, we trust in God’s Word. Let us prepare our hearts, increase in love, and stay vigilant in prayer.
As we journey through this season, may we eagerly await Christ’s coming, so that when He arrives, we can joyfully say, “For You, forever!”
Amen.
What is Advent?
Advent is a four-week season in the liturgical calendar that prepares Christians for the celebration of Christ’s birth at Christmas.
Why is hope significant in Advent?
Hope is central to Advent as it reflects our trust in God’s promises and anticipation of Christ’s return.
How can we spiritually prepare for Advent?
Through prayer, acts of love, repentance, and reflection on scripture, we prepare our hearts to welcome Christ.
What are the four themes for Advent Season?
Hope, Peace, Joy and Love
